Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro publicly challenged Chinese representatives during a security forum in Seoul after receiving a note accusing his country of 'bullying' in the South China Sea.
Teodoro rejected the characterization on stage, asserting that the Philippines remains committed to defending its sovereign rights against illegal maritime incursions.
The incident highlights the intensifying diplomatic friction in the region, as Manila continues to strengthen its security alliances with the U.S. and South Korea to counter Beijing's influence.